The Cabaret of Dangerous Ideas is a series of talks taking place monthly at The Stand. During Fringe 2024, however, we’re getting a bumper serving, with a grand total of forty-seven challenging topics on offer.

The CoDI was originally developed twelve years ago by Edinburgh’s four universities, Fair Pley Productions, comedian Susan Morrison and The Stand itself, but it now attracts academics from all over Scotland and beyond.  The idea is that speakers get 20-30 minutes in which to talk about their subject – but before you turn away, here’s the important bit; IT’S NOT BORING! They have to make it accessible and fun. And yes, from what I’ve seen they achieve this in spades. Some of the speakers are regulars, others, like our star today, psychologist Dr David Smith of RGU Aberdeen, are newbies. (Don’t worry David, it didn’t show.)

The title of today’s talk is Alphas, Betas and Chads! I only found out last week what Chad means, though it’s apparently been a viral meme (whatever that may be…) since 2010. Here’s what Wikipedia has to say,

Smith’s research looks at incel (voluntary incelibate) groups. You’ve probably heard of them. If the term leads you to imagine angry men glaring at computer screens in their bedrooms, to a certain extent you’d be right, but as with most things there’s more to it than that. Dr Smith is here to tell us what he’s found out.

Incel groups meet on websites used by “men who think they are unf**kable”. This makes them cross, miserable, and sometimes dangerous. Smith wants to know why men join these groups and why they stay in them.

He asks audience members to think back to the first time they had sex. How did they feel afterwards? Happy? Relieved? Disappointed? Losing one’s virginity is seen as a milestone in life. Men who use incel sites are obsessed with their inability to reach this goal. When they’re not banging on about football or dousing themselves in Lynx, teenage boys in particular brag constantly (though probably untruthfully) about how much sex they’ve had. Less “active” boys believe them and worry about their lack of success. All sorts of awful men have sex (‘even Hitler!’) so, they ask themselves, why can’t we?

And as time passes and group members enjoy a collective wallow, guess who they blame for everything? Feminists of course! Though they’re not mad on successful men either. In fact they don’t like anybody much.

The argument goes thus. Before feminism, the 10/10 alpha male, ‘Chad’, slept with the alpha girl ‘Stacey.’ (Morrison “But Stacey was a Poundland Barbie!”) Incels both pity and envy Chad. They see him as emotionally shallow but they envy the way he can hang out with Stacey. In the past, however, help was at hand – Becky (6/10) would still be prepared to sleep with beta males like them. But then along came evil feminists, who (allegedly) told Becky she too was worthy of Chad. So lucky old Chad gets Stacey and Becky, and Mr 6/10 is left to his own devices. (Personally I think I’d rather be Zoe, who watches Real Housewives with a glass in one hand and a bar of chocolate in the other…but Chad seems to find fertile hunting grounds somewhere.)

How then do incels explain the many non-Chads who do have female partners? Aha – they have an answer for that one! These innocent babies are being economically exploited by women who, unable to get it on with Chad, turn to non-Chads purely for their money,

So, incels conclude, they themselves can never be happy.

Women! We’ve got a lot to answer for.

For his research Smith has spoken to many men who have now left incel groups. Most group members are aged 18-30, though one was just 12 years old. Although the public tends to associate these groups with white supremacists, only 55% of the men involved are white. Most are in North American or the UK. Deprivation is a major factor. They usually live rurally and have low paid jobs. 85% still live with their parents. Perhaps surprisingly, some identify as left wing – one was even a Bernie Sanders campaigner – but most are apolitical; they just hate everyone.

Smith reads a few quotes from interviews he’s conducted with former group members, some of whom now belong to ex-incel sites. Many said they’d never before spoken to a non-incel about their problems. They were keen to chat, though kept their cameras off,

Incels often suffer from mental health problems, particularly body dysmorphia, depression and anxiety. 30% self-identify as neurodiverse. Almost half contemplate self-harm of some sort on a daily basis. Suicide is a frequent topic of discussion. For the sad fact is, these men hate themselves as much as they hate women. And although it’s maybe good that these sites allow men to talk about mental health, they are definitely not support groups, in fact they encourage suicide. They are somewhere that men can express sexist views and egg one another on to believe that nothing is ever their fault. Eventually members start to feel so miserable and powerless that their sadness turns to anger and their anger leads, potentially, to violence. They are in a downward spiral and see no way of changing things. They feel humiliated by the world,

Fantasises around rape, and of forming militias to ‘take out chads on the street’, are common.

An incel mass shooter, who killed six people before taking his own life, is celebrated annually on his ‘day of retribution.’

Talking to so many ex-incels has given Smith a picture of why they leave the groups. Many remain virgins and still have mental health issues, but they have gained a level of accountability and become a bit less misogynistic. How does this happen? Does it give us any clues as to how others can be helped?

Some just grew out of it – they became much older than the other members so had less in common with them. Others may have moved out of the family home, graduated from college, moved from the countryside to the city, or found a better job. Any and all of these things improve their self esteem and help them to find real life friends, to become less isolated.

Smith is concerned, though, that the cost of living crisis and housing shortages may exacerbate the problem. Men will be stuck in their bedrooms staring at the screen, competing with other incels to be the most miserable, shortest, baldest, least well-endowed guy in the world. Some spend 6 hours a day on these sites. Incels, says Smith, don’t even like one another, they’re not making new friends this way, they’re simply having all their negative views confirmed and validated.

Why, asks Morrison, don’t they just spend less time on websites and more time getting out and meeting people? Because, Smith explains, they are fundamentally anxious, scared of women and terrified of one-to-one conversations.

Questions and debate are a big part of The Cabaret of Dangerous Ideas, so now the floor is thrown open, and it’s a mark of how interesting Smith’s talk has been that many hands shoot up.

Celibacy, says a member of the audience, has always been a thing, so why has the concept of it changed so much? Smith sees the internet as a major driver; social media are great in many ways, but they allow people to build their entire identity around their grievances. The increasing sexualisation of young women does not help, and dating apps – although they also have positives – cause problems. 70% of people using these apps are men, and incels’ negative thoughts can so easily be fuelled by a lack of ‘swipes.’

When convicted sex traffickers have in the past been allowed to present themselves as alpha males on mainstream shows and TikTok, and some still have a huge social media presence, it’s inevitable that incels will try to emulate them, then feel an even greater sense of failure when they still can’t attract a partner.

If incels want sex, can they not pay for it? asks another audience member. Predictably perhaps, this will not do. These guys see any woman who’s had multiple partners as ‘tarnished’; they might just accept someone who’s had fewer partners than they have (which on the whole is none), but what they really want is – surprise! – a virgin. They also have some bizarre ideas about what sex does to a woman’s vagina (they won’t be wanting anyone who’s ever given birth then…)

Inceldom becomes, says Smith, a form of radicalisation, and although incidents of violence are rare, the incel movement needs to be countered both for the sake of its victims and for the sake of the incels themselves. He urges us to show compassion for these lonely, misguided men, who are fundamentally asking a very human question,

A system like democratic socialism would. Smith suggests, give people a sense of security, and could potentially help them to stop blaming others for everything. More economic security would lead to greater self esteem; it would also allow incels to move out of their parents’ houses, and give them the means to pay for dating (‘it’s not cheap!’) As with so many of our current problems, it’s social deprivation that really needs to be addressed.

Someone points out that when behaviours formerly seen as ‘deviant’ have been reclassified as mental health disorders, more help has been made available to sufferers. Should inceldom be treated in the same way? Yes! says Smith, it most definitely should, but incels tend to reject the idea of therapy; they see therapists as wealthy chads. He suggests two potentially useful approaches; school sex education should include advice about handling dating apps and rejection, and online group therapies such as CBT should be targeted at incels; this would help to remove the ‘affluent chad’ stigma. Former incel recovery groups are particularly helpful; incels can access them from home, their ‘safe place’, and hear from men who used to be like them but now have an alternative world view.

Asked about the next steps for his research, Smith says he’s interested in how location affects incels, and how information is communicated on TikTok. He’s also keen to look at the impact of social media regulation. Some chat sites are at last beginning to self-regulate but others are still complete free-for-alls, offering ideal breeding grounds for extremely niche subgroups.

This was another very interesting event from CoDI. Despite huge competition for festival audiences, these sessions are regularly packed out; people are still keen to discuss current issues in person, and Dr Smith’s talk certainly gave them plenty to discuss. One of the great things about the CoDI is that, at a time when none of us really knows if anything we see on our screens is real, they’re given by people who know their stuff. Even when controversial, it’s still reliable, fact-based information. And who knew academics could be so entertaining? It must be brilliant being a student these days.

There are still shows to come in The Cabaret of Dangerous Ideas Fringe series. For more information visit The Stand’s website here – but be warned, at least two sessions are already sold out. You can also book on the Fringe website and app.

The Cabaret of Dangerous Ideas resumes its normal schedule on 25th October.

Susan Morrison is also offering her Fringe event Susan Morrison is Walking Funny (walking tour) at 3pm every day until 25th August. More information here (please note though that the Saturday tour is already sold out.)

Susan resumes her monthly show Susan Morrison is Historically Funny at The Stand on 29 September. Tickets here.

The number of people who died from drugs related deaths in Midlothian last year was five times higher than the previous year.

Health chiefs in Midlothian described the 20 deaths recorded in 2023 in the county as a ‘tragedy’ coming just 12 months after they reported the lowest number of deaths in over a decade.

A meeting of Midlothian Integration Joint Board, which oversees health and social care, heard from its chief officer Morag Barrow that they had an “exceptionally low year” in 2022 when just four drug deaths were recorded.

She said the latest figures from last year matched the average number which had been seen in other previous years.

But she told the meeting: “Every drugs death, indeed every death, is a tragedy and we extend our condolences to every family affected.”

Midlothian’s head of adult services Nick Clater reminded health chiefs that in July last year there were four deaths relating to a specific batch of drugs which had affected the county.

He said that, at the time, the outreach team had worked to identify and support vulnerable people in the communities affected saying the death rate may have been even higher without their efforts.

Councillor Derek Milligan said he was baffled by the higher number of drugs deaths recorded across Scotland compared to England and Wales and questioned whether there was a difference in the way the statistics were being recorded.

Mr Clater told him: “That is the $64million question.”

Councillor Milligan said: “It is an absolute tragedy. When I think that this has been at the top of priorities for some time and we are still seeing these figures.

“I am perplexed by it because I travel all over the country in England and Wales and I can’t get my head around the huge difference in the figures when I see areas there with the same issues and, in some cases, worse.

“Is there a huge difference in the number of people taking drugs in Scotland or is the information being collected differently?”

Ms Barrow told the board: “There is a question  around what is being classed as a drugs death, for example we have seen people dying from long standing conditions who have a drugs issue or drugs related suicide.”

Mr Clater said a detailed report would be presented to the next meeting of the board looking at the latest drugs death figures and responding to questions about how they are recorded.

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter

The owner of a North Berwick holiday flat refused permission to operate is fighting a bid to shut it down after claiming the service it offers has changed.

James Miller-Stirling was refused permission to carry on using the flat on Balfour Street as a short term holiday let by East Lothian Council planners earlier this year after they ruled it was not a ‘lawful’ use.

He lost an appeal to Scottish Ministers to overturn the council decision but has lodged a fresh appeal against an enforcement notice issued by the council demanding it is no longer rented out.

In his latest appeal, agents for Mr Miller-Stirling argue that the circumstances of the flat have changed as it is now only rented for a minimum of  seven days a week  – it was previously stated stays were for four days or more.

And they say that any suggestion cleaning the flat between visits was any more intense than cleaners being used by residents was untrue.

They say: “Given that any residential occupier might elect to make use of various cleaning services on a regular basis, it is not held that the servicing of the appeal property results in an intensified pattern of activity or movement when compared to any other residential use.”

The flat owner had applied for a Certificate of Lawfulness for the property which would have meant he did not need to apply for planning permission for a change of use however planners rejected the application.

Despite this East Lothian Licensing bosses issued a temporary licence to run the short term let, a decision taken independent of planning.

In the appeal against the enforcement notice Mr Miller-Stirling’s agents hold up the licence as “a strong indicator that the property’s use does not result in public nuisance, nor generate valid or material complaints from neighbours”.

They argue that the change in the length of stay at the flat which is only rented out for around 100 days a year means there can only be a maximum of 14 resident arrivals per year which is no more disruptive than if it were used as a residential flat.

They say:”The appellant therefore contends that no material change of use has occurred.”

The case has been allocated to a Reporter for investigation.

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter

Police are appealing for information after a motorbike was stolen from the Dalrymple Crescent area of Musselburgh.

The incident happened overnight and was reported to police around 9.30am on Wednesday, 21 August.

It is a distinctive yellow Yamaha R1, registration DY59 AZJ, and was taken from a garage at the rear of a property.

Police Constable Sara Hamilton said: “Our enquiries are ongoing to trace the motorbike and those responsible for taking it.

“We are asking anyone who saw anything suspicious to get in touch. Likewise, if you see the motorbike then please let us know.”

Anyone who can help is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 0669 of Wednesday, 21 August, 2024, or make a call anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Scotland men’s head coach Jonny Caren saw his men cruise to a 10-2 victory over Croatia in their EuroHockey qualifier in Vienna and declared: “There is always room for improvement.”

The Scots had to come from behind to notch the confidence-boosting win as Croatia took an early lead when Josip Krezla struck from a penalty corner to go 1-0 up.

Five minutes later and Scotland were on level terms through Tommy Austin and, at the end of the first quarter, A J Lochrin fired Scotland ahead.

Struan Walker made it 3-1 for Scotland as half time neared but Croatia held Scotland until midway through the third quarter before Paris Olympian Lee Morton then fired home for 4-1.

Cammy Golden netted the fifth from a penalty corner before Croatia pulled one back from Andrej Zidanic but Golden made it 6-2 at the start of the final quarter.

Four goals then arrived in the final ten minutes from from Andrew McConnell, two from Jamie Golden and another from Walker and coach Caren (pictured) said: “The game started as expected.

“It’s been a long time getting to this point, with over 12 months of preparation time, so there was some nervous energy in the first ten minutes that we needed to get out of our system. 

“A few small adjustments to our plan at quarter time allowed us to create better passing options, which started to help us grow in confidence.” 

He added: “Overall, I’m very happy with how we went about our business. We pressed well and the energy we brought to our off ball movement was good.

“There is always room for improvement, for which we’ll need, when we come to play a tough opponent in Ukraine. The team has earned its rest day tomorrow and we’ll focus on recovery, do our homework on what we need to improve and go again on Saturday.”

Award-winning artist Aitch will be in Edinburgh for a fan meet-and-greet at Scotmid’s flagship store on Leven Street on 24 August.

In early 2023, Harrison Armstrong, known as Aitch, struggled to make the change from his fizzy drink addiction to drinking more water despite overwhelming education on the importance of hydration. He found that he was not alone. Scotmid says that Gen-Z buys more soft drinks than any other age group.

In 2022 68.5% of Gen-Z relied on a soft drink while they were on the go with 11-18 year olds consuming an average of 234 cans a year.

Frustrated with the lack of credible alternatives in the market and recognising something needed to change, he set out to create a solution in SYPS – a range of drinks which have all of the flavour standard and fizz sensation of a fizzy drink but none of the sugary downside. And it’s water so it helps with his hydration goals, guilt free. 

Harrison “Aitch” Armstrong, Founder of SYPS said: “I’ve always had a great time performing in Scotland. You lot know how to bring the energy! I’m really excited to celebrate the SYPS partnership with Scotmid and meet as many fans as possible in Edinburgh.”

Steven Addison, Category Manager at Scotmid, said: “It’s not every day that you have an award-winning artist in your store, so this is very exciting!  Part of our ongoing commitment is to deliver choice, innovation and opportunity through new products, so it’s great to see our customers respond so well to SYPS. Aitch and SYPS gives customers another reason to visit Scotmid!  

Aitch will be visiting Scotmid’s flagship store on Leven Street on Saturday 24 August, starting at 2pm until the queue closes at 3pm.

The first 50 people in the queue to meet Aitch will receive a limited edition signed Aitch poster and the first five people will receive a limited edition signed SYPS gift box. To meet Aitch, fans will have to buy a can of SYPS on the day from the store.

The Scottish Conservatives have confirmed the candidates for the party’s next leader.

Russell Findlay, Murdo Fraser and Meghan Gallacher all secured the required 100 nominations from members over the two-week nomination period and have accepted the nomination.

A series of hustings will now take place across the country – including an online hustings – for party members to attend starting on Saturday morning (24 August) in Renfrew.

Ballot papers will be posted to members on Wednesday 4 September, with the ballot closing at 12pm on Thursday 26 September. The winner will be announced on Friday 27 September.

The new leader will be chosen via a preferential voting system, with members ranking their chosen candidates in order of preference. The bottom ranked candidate will be eliminated in each round, with their first-preference votes redistributed until one candidate receives over 50 per cent of the votes cast. 

Scottish Conservative chairman Craig Hoy MSP said: “My congratulations go to the candidates who secured the backing of the required number of party members and who now proceed to the election.

“We now look forward to an open contest between the three candidates, giving them the opportunity to outline their vision and policies at hustings events to be held up and down Scotland over the coming weeks.

“Once hustings have concluded, a full ballot of members will decide the next Leader of the Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, who will be announced next month.”

HUSTINGS

Saturday 24 August – 10am – Renfrew

Sunday 25 August – 2pm – Perth

Tuesday 27 August – 7pm – Online

Saturday 31 August – 2pm – Inverness

Sunday 1 September – 2pm – Aberdeen

Wednesday 4 September – 6:30pm – Galashiels

Saturday 7 September – 10am – Dumfries

Sunday 8 September – 2pm – Edinburgh

Scotland’s Chief Constable Jo Farrell praised the good sense of our communities during periods of violence and disorder in other parts of the United Kingdom. 

He comments were made during a public update at the Scottish Police Authority Board today Thursday, 22 August. 

The Chief also thanked officers and staff who contributed to Police Scotland’s response throughout the period, including officers who deployed following a mutual aid request from the Police Service of Northern Ireland. 

She said: “I want to thank our communities for their support and good sense during a challenging time which has seen appalling violence and disorder in parts of the United Kingdom. 

“Our thoughts are with the individuals and communities who have been affected in recent weeks and with our brave colleagues from across UK policing who have put themselves in harm’s way to protect the public. 

“We continue to be closely in touch with other police services and have provided mutual aid support, a valuable principle in UK policing which is balanced against the needs of policing in Scotland. 

“On Monday of this week, I thanked officers who deployed to support colleagues after we responded to a mutual aid request from the Police Service of Northern Ireland and initial feedback around arrangements and their welfare was very positive. 

“I want to thank all officers and staff who contributed to our response. 

“During the period, I met with the First Minister John Swinney MSP, the Cabinet Secretary for Justice Angela Constance MSP, Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown MSP and Secretary of State for Scotland Ian Murray MP to brief them on our response.  

“As Chief Constable, my priority continues to be the safety and security of the people of Scotland, including our officers and staff. 

“Policing in Scotland has strong relationships with the public and we deeply value our role in contributing to the important social cohesion which has been evident here. 

“I encourage everyone to be responsible in their use of social media – please do not share speculation or inaccurate information. Think twice about what you read, share and believe from online sources. 

“During this time, we increased our patrols and engaged directly with communities to offer reassurance and support.  

“As part of this, I was pleased to meet with community groups, including the Scottish Refugee Council, Interfaith Scotland, and various ethnic and faith groups and individuals in Glasgow so I was able to listen to their perspectives first hand. 

“We are closely monitoring the situation to ensure any potential for violence or disorder in Scotland is identified quickly and responded to immediately. 

“Our role is to ensure public safety while balancing the rights of protesters who wish to peacefully demonstrate. 

“And we have sent a clear and consistent message that any violence and disorder that is not legitimate protest will be dealt with swiftly and robustly. 

“The policing demand associated with the violence and disorder comes during a busy summer of events including festivals, sporting events, music concerts and a general election. 

“I am grateful to the many officers and staff who have been involved in planning or providing the support required to allow our communities to go about their business and leisure or exercise their democratic and human rights. 

“An effective, appropriately resourced, police service able to support law and order is therefore a pre-requisite for the social cohesion and economic development necessary for Scotland to thrive and flourish.” 

David Eagle has won another award for his Edinburgh Fringe show The Eagle is Candid.

Mervyn Stutter’s annual Spirit of the Fringe award was announced today, with recipients receiving their awards on Saturday 24th August.

The Mervyn Stutter “Spirit of the Fringe” Awards (aka “The MERVs”) have been running for 31 years. The award celebrates the talent, hard work, pluck and sheer doggedness demanded of performers from all genres on the Fringe to make a show a success. The awards were created to recognise those who show commitment in the face of little support or funding or those who have consistently provided audiences with quality entertainment over the years.

David Eagle commented: “What an honour. The list of previous winners is full of comedy legends. And now there’s me. I now feel like it’s incumbent on me to try and become more well-known in comedy, so as not to completely devalue this prestigious award.”

David also received an Outstanding Visually Impaired Award at the Neurodiverse Review Awards held earlier this week at Just the Tonic Nucleus, and has been shortlisted for Best Show at the ISH Comedy Awards.

David Eagle is a blind comedian and folk singer. In The Eagle Is Candid, David has been accosted by faith healers, bamboozled aggressive Australians and escaped arrest after a nocturnal accordion-based antisocial incident. “A comic tour de force” (The Guardian). Best Variety Show, Leicester Comedy Festival. “Brilliant, nuts, heartily recommend!” (Rufus Hound). Three-time winner, BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards. Leicester Square Theatre New Comedian of The Year.

Now to 25 August @ 9.30pm – Just The Tonic at Cabaret Voltaire
https://edinburgh.justthetonic.com/event/88:4497/

Sustainability, gin and comfort food take centre stage

As the end of the Fringe approaches, one of Edinburgh’s most historic hospitality venues reflects on what’s trending at this year’s festival.

As a central venue at the Fringe, Surgeons Quarter has fully embraced the trends of 2024, blending tradition with modern innovation to become a focal point for visitors seeking an authentic Fringe experience.

In partnership with theSpaceUk, which hosts the largest and most diverse programme across the 11 theatres at Surgeons Quarter, the Old Town venue also offers a myriad of indoor and al fresco dining  options including Café 1505 and Ten Hill Place hotel.

Last year Fringe-goers used a staggering 42,000 single use plastic cups across Surgeons Quarter. So far in 2024, that number has been dramatically reduced to 6,580 reusable cups—including pint cups, half-pints, and wine glasses—as part of an ongoing effort to minimise environmental impact.

Scott Mitchell, Managing Director of Surgeons Quarter said: “At Surgeons Quarter, we’re committed to trying new ways to increase sustainability measures, especially during large events like the Fringe. This year’s Fringe has given us the perfect opportunity to introduce the reusable cups as an eco-friendly solution, and while the transition presented some challenges – more than 1,500 cups were not returned in the first week—we remain optimistic.

“We hope that our efforts will encourage other venues to follow suit and by taking small steps we can begin to move closer to a more sustainable Fringe experience, one cup at the time”

Another trend the business has embraced is the resurgence of gin. The venue’s exclusive 1505 Gin, which has accounted for 52% of all spirit sales during the festival so far, is not only a popular choice among attendees but also a nod to Edinburgh’s rich history.

Crafted in small batches at the nearby Summerhall Distillery, the gin is infused with five original herbs and botanicals used in the 16th century, paying tribute to the Barber Surgeons of Edinburgh, who were granted the first license to distil alcohol in the city over 500 years ago.

Complementing the sustainable and historical offerings is the focus on comfort food. Chips, a festival favourite, have taken centre stage at Surgeons Quarter, with options ranging from traditional servings to Mexican or Scottish-inspired loaded fries, catering to diverse tastes and adding a touch of indulgence to the festival experience.

Surgeons Quarter promotes, sells, and manages all commercial activities held within the RCSEd campus.

These include facilities for conferences, meetings, private events, parties, and weddings, as well as its own four-star hotel, Ten Hill Place, Café 1505, and SQ Travel.

https://www.surgeonsquarter.com/

The National Theatre of Scotland produces some of the most amazing drama.

And David Ireland’s writing is amazing. This story about men, intimacy and our belief systems is presented in the most precise, concise, and incisive language, not an unnecessary syllable.

Of course, the acting of both Jack Lowden as Luka and Sean Gilder as James is fabulous delivering those lines with alacrity and forceful emotion. The set design is clever being on a rotating platform to change into a small variety of scenes used to eminent effect.

The story involves Luka searching for a sponsor having recently joined Alcoholics Anonymous. He finds James, an older man who has been in the programme for years thus seeming to be a suitable candidate to take Luka through each of the twelve steps. However, the road to recovery is not smooth. Honesty is difficult.

For reference, the fifth step of the AA programme is to admit to God, to yourself, and to another human being the exact nature of your wrongs.

But what is God? And how does an atheist adapt this guideline?

https://www.eif.co.uk/events/the-fifth-step Until 25 August. Not to be missed.

Major refurbishment of vast site shows large plots and modernised homes.

The first visuals revealing the future of 78 former army homes on Edinburgh’s outskirts have been released, giving interested buyers a taste of what to expect.

Created using a combination of photographic and overlayed computer-generated imagery, the visuals give an indication of how the homes and public space at Craigiehall Meadows will look on completion.

Once a community of military families serving the British Army’s Scottish Headquarters at Craigiehall, each of the 78 homes will be completely refurbished and brought up to modern standards.

The images also demonstrate the development’s large, mature plots, as well as the abundance of greenery across the tree-lined site.

Tzana Webster, Head of Estate Agency with Ralph Sayer, the firm which is managing the sales and marketing for the site has revealed very high early interest in the development.

She said: “My first impression on seeing the CGIs was – wow. These are going to become exceptional homes with large front and back gardens, which is rare across Edinburgh – especially compared to new build developments on the market.

“This will be a perfect base for those who want the outdoors life but within easy reach of the city and it’s great to show those interested, whether buyers or people with a connection to the location, what is coming down the line.

“Interest has been high, including from people who used to live here while it served families from the armed forces. This is an amazing location, and a lot of people have a connection with it.”

Craigiehall Meadows is set in an expansive, tree-lined location linking the River Almond with the 800-acre Dalmeny Estate. It is next to Barnton, Cramond and Cammo.

The homes on offer will include a mix of detached, and semi-detached properties all with modern finishes and amenities.

The history of Craigiehall dates to the 17th century when it existed as a country house and estate before it was requisitioned by the Armed Forces in 1939.

It became the Scottish Army HQ in 1951 and operated as the Craigiehall camp from 1955, housing notable regiments until the base was announced for closure in 2011 as part of the Defence Basing Review.

Mature planting and adjacence to farmland give the location a rural feel, however, there is good connectivity to the city, motorway network and Edinburgh Airport.

Enabling works are now underway, with homes becoming available to the market during the refurbishment process.

Those interested in the development can register their interest on this website.

Police are continuing with their efforts to trace Daniel Carroll 15 who has been reported missing from the Bellshill area.

Daniel was last seen leaving an address in Bellshill at 5pm on 13th August 2024.

It is believed that he has travelled to the Edinburgh area and is in the company of a female associate.

He is known to frequent the Chesser area.

Daniel is described as 5ft 8in, slim build, with brown hair and glasses. When last seen he was wearing a black hoodie, black t-shirt, grey joggers and grey trainers.

Anyone who may have seen Daniel since this time, or who has any information which could be relevant, is urged to contact Police Scotland via 101 quoting incident number 4292 of 13/08/24.

Scrapping cycle lane projects and low traffic neighbourhoods has topped the list of ways Edinburgh Council has been urged to cut back on costs.

The public were asked to suggest money-saving ideas in the face of £110m of cuts to the capital’s services in the next five years.

An online survey and in-person engagement sessions gathered 2,849 responses – half of which raised concerns about the condition of the city’s roads.

The council said it was the largest-ever response to a budget engagement process and the feedback has been “shared with services”.

However it added it was not a “representative sample of residents” and it was not possible to “extrapolate from this response what the views of all Edinburgh residents would be”.

Locals were asked several questions in relation to what the council’s priorities should be when deciding the budget, including ‘where can we improve?’, ‘what ideas do you have for how the Council could save money?’ and ‘what service that you use or receive could the Council reduce or stop providing?’.

The most popular proposal to reduce costs, backed by 712 respondents, was to ‘stop’ controversial Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs) which are measures aimed at reducing through-traffic in some neighbourhoods, as well as Spaces for People, the council’s active travel programme which has increased the number of cycle lanes and widened pavements in recent years.

‘Reduce active travel’ was in second place with 588 mentions, followed by ‘cut managers / salaries’ (255), ‘stop Tram extension’ (250), ‘tourist tax’ (243) and ‘general efficiencies’ (227).

A report said: “Most participants suggested that the council could and should save money by reducing spending on various activities intended to encourage active travel, discourage private car travel, extend the tram, or reduce the presence of polluting vehicles in the city centre.

“There was support for increasing council tax and parking charges for those who could afford to pay them instead of reducing services, which were already felt to be “cut to the bone”.

“Participants called for a reduction in management at the Council, as well as generally making the organisation more efficient.”

It added while many individual ideas were suggested, these were “often out-of-scope of council powers, or did not show a clear path to cost reduction or revenue increases”.

Participants “strongly rejected the notion that any service could be stopped or reduced,” the report continued. “Although participants had different priorities, and different perspectives on what basic services were, there was consensus that services had been under-funded and that more investment was needed.”

Phase two of budget engagement will be themed around “improving your neighbourhood” and entail focus groups with a range of age groups.

https://consultationhub.edinburgh.gov.uk/cg/budget-engagement-2024

By Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter

Imagine if Jesus had a Linkedin profile. How would he big himself up? “Mind reader, life coach, wellness evangelist”, perhaps? 

These thoughts and others on the pretentious, puffed-up language of corporate life are ruthlessly mined for their rich comic potential by James Schloeffel and Charles Firth, aka “Australia’s (and the internet’s) favourite overpaid consultants”, to quote their own self-aggrandisement.

Schloeffel, 44, from Melbourne, who used to work as a copywriter for marketing and branding agencies, and Firth, 48, from Sydney, a co-founder of the Australian satirical team The Chaser, are the “chief ideation ninja” and the chief solutions samurai”, respectively, of Wankernomics Consulting Solutions.

Having introduced themselves to the sell-out crowd, they set about stripping back the world of corporate “bullshittery” that involves never using one word where three will do (“don’t say ‘co-operate’, say ‘break down the silos'”); never letting on that you have no idea what you are doing, particularly in meetings; indulging in a spot of “MEAFA (making everything a fucking acronym)” wherever possible; and disregarding the principles of the English language, so that an idea gets ideated before becoming an ideation which inevitably entails a round of ideationing.

Their multi-unit presentation, which involves “upskilling” a supposedly “downsized” audience volunteer, includes a segment on the purpose of a work email. On a big screen, the words “communicate effectively with colleagues” are crossed out and replaced with “maliciously undermine your work colleagues while using an upbeat pseudo-polite tone”. There are knowing laughs as Firth exposes the hidden meanings behind idiomatic office lingo, with examples including, “‘As per my last email’, which we all know means, ‘I hate you’ and ‘With all due respect’, which translated means, ‘I have absolutely zero respect for you’.” 

Expanding a single idea into a fully fleshed-out satirical show takes some doing and the Wankernomics duo succeed admirably, moving on from the office to rewrite film titles and then Shakespeare. Turning to “Macbeth” – “bit of a local play”, Firth observes – Lady Macbeth’s “Out, damned spot!” monologue is modernised to, “Ooh, no; got some blood on my hands. At least my husband got his promotion.”

Rewriting history for the corporate world, where “collaboration is key”, involves incorporating Microsoft Word track changes into some of the greatest speeches of all time. In one excellent skit, Firth dresses up as Abraham Lincoln, complete with a huge black top hat and a ridiculous beard, and sits down at a table with an Apple laptop while the Gettysburg address – which the 16th US president delivered in 1863 – is projected onto the screen.

It is then defenestrated by Peter, the social media manager, Sally from strategy, Kelly from marketing and others before “legal” covers the seminal document in blocks of red. As Microsoft Word unexpectedly quits and Lincoln stalks off stage, kicking his chair over, Firth quips: “We’ve got to remember that without the Gettysburg address American politics would be a total basket case now.”

Back in “the real world” of corporate magnification, the process of establishing company values, developing a purpose statement and creating a TV commercial, replete with meaningless platitudes, are systematically sent up as the show culminates in the audience “volunteer” spinning the Wankernomics TV commercial generator. All in all, it generated a lorra lorra laughs.

Wankernomics: As Per My Last Email Pleasance Courtyard (Pleasance One) until 26 August. https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/wankernomics-as-per-my-last-email

The joint winners of the 2024 Popcorn Writing Awards are VL by Kieran Hurley and Gary McNair, and Weather Girl by Brian Watkins.

The £6,500 prize will be shared between the winners and the runners up (The Book of Mountain and Seas and Knock on the Roof). Popcorn Group and BBC Writers will also offer career development support.

Written by Kieran Hurley and Gary McNair, VL explores the challenges and comedic absurdity of coming of age in a small-town school when you’re a VL (Virgin Lips).

Kieran and Gary said: “We’re absolutely buzzing to have been awarded the Popcorn Award for VL. When we’re writing these characters together our first aim is just to make each other laugh, and discovering that Max and Stevie’s trials and travails resonate with others is a great reward. This award is testament to the work of Scott, Gav, Orla, Eve and the whole team, who put so much faith in us and elevate everything we write. Particular thanks have to go to Francesca and everyone at FMP for taking a chance on us again. To share this award with Brian and the Weather Girl team is our honour, and suggests that FMP lot might just know what they’re doing when it comes to backing new work.”

Weather Girl by Brian Watkins is a blistering satire on climate change and the strange, dark heart of America.

Brian said: “I am honoured to receive this storied award and to be recognised alongside so many other brilliant playwrights. This play is a love letter to where I’m from, for all its strangeness and dysfunction and dark enchanted corners, and I’m immensely grateful to the incredible team and audiences that embraced it wholeheartedly. Chief among those collaborators are my partner in crime actress Julia McDermott, whose brilliance willed the play into existence, director Tyne Rafaeli and producer Francesca Moody. I could not have done this without them. My deepest thanks to the award committee for this incredible honour, and for doing God’s work in supporting new writing.”

The runners-up take second and third places – The Book of Mountains and Seas by Yilong Liu, which is a bittersweet journey exploring grief, cultural clashes, and the unlikeliest of friendships; and Knock on the Roof by Khawla Ibraheem, a poignant yet comedic narrative portraying one mother’s resilience and instinct for survival in war-torn Gaza.

A special mention was given to Pop Off, Michelangelo! by Dylan MarcAurele, a sharp and irreverent musical comedy that hilariously reimagines the legendary rivalry between Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, skillfully blending historical inaccuracies with contemporary humour.

The winner and finalists were announced at the award ceremony held at the Pleasance Courtyard Cabaret Bar on Thursday morning, with winners and finalists in attendance. Prizes were presented by Christopher Richardson, founder of Pleasance.

Hibs Women continued their fine start to the season with a comprehensive win against Dundee United at Meadowbank last night. 

Linzi Taylor and Eilidh Adams both scored twice before Mya Christie made it 5-0 at the break. 

Kathleen McGovern added a sixth deep into the second half. 

After the final whistle Hibs Head Coach Grant Scott told Hibs TV:  

“We’re in a good place at the moment. 

“The team looked very comfortable again tonight. We made a few changes, rested a few players and made substitutions. 

“I’m delighted with the clean sheet again and another three points.” 

Scott was full of praise for Taylor. 

“She played against us last year in that [advanced] role. 

“If I’m being honest, she crucified us at times in a couple of matches. 

“We were very keen on bringing her to the club. You seen tonight what she can offer. 

“She’s had to bide her time and has given us a proper headache as well. 

“I’m delighted for her. She’s came in and applied herself really, really well. She’s a great character to have in the team.” 

“I’m delighted,” Taylor told Hibs TV. “Overall performance from the group was fantastic first-half. 

“We know we let standards drop second half, but that’s the high standards that have been set since the start of the season. 

“Even though we did get the six goals, we are still disappointed. But there are still so many positives to take.” 

Despite the collective disappointment at scoring just the six goals in Wednesday’s victory, Taylor insists team spirit her time at Hibs has started excellently both on and off the pitch. 

“It’s been great. I’m enjoying every second of it. The girls, coaching staff and backroom staff have been fantastic. 

“Here, I can only improve as a player and a person. 

“I think one of my strengths as a player is that I can fit into many roles and do a job. 

“But I’m just happy to help the team out in any way I can.” 

Stellar Monarchs have confirmed that Justin Sedgmen will return for their biggest match of the season so far at Armadale on Friday when Scunthorpe Scorpions visit in the BSN Series semi-final, first-leg (tapes-up 7.30pm).

Sedgmen (pictured in the pits at Armadale by Nigel Duncan), is the club’s No 5 rider, and has been sidelined with a knee injury. Club officials say that the popular Aussie from Mildura, Victoria, is feeling more comfortable every day.

The 32-year-old is desperate to play a part after being on the sidelines for some weeks after a crash in Heat Four of the club’s 55-53 victory over Workington Comets at the West Lothian stadium in the Cab Direct Championship on July 19.

And Sedgmen confirmed his fitness after a mid-week try-out so the Armadale club will be at full strength as they bid to stay on track for silverware.

Earlier this season, Monarchs eased their way through the Scottish section of the BSN Series group stages to set up this intriguing semi-final against a side sitting in third position in the nine-strong league.

Monarchs, who prop up the rest, have already put the Scorpions to the sword at Armadale, winning 56-43 in mid-June with Sedgmen top scoring on 14 and Josh Pickering one point behind.

A battling display at Scunthorpe’s Eddie Wright Raceway saw the aggregate point secured in a 50-39 defeat. Pickering scored 15 from six races and Sedgmen eight from five.

A repeat of these performances would secure a slot in the final and Pickering, the club’s in-form, No 1 racer, who this week confirmed he would be riding for Polish combine, Unia Leszno next season, will be a key man.

Scorpions, however, are set to be at full-strength and they are on good form and the return is at Scunthorpe on September 6. Alex Harkess, Monarchs’ team manager, said: “They are coming to us first and we need to open a big lead.

“We know it is difficult at their place, although we did very well down there (earlier this season) after a bad start.”

TALK IN: Josh Pickering consults his pit crew at Armadale. Picture by Nigel Duncan

FAN-TASTIC: A young fan is cheered when one of his favourites signs his plaster cast. Picture Nigel Duncan

LOW DOWN: Paco Castagna checks the track at Armadale ahead of a match. Picture Nigel Duncan

SMILES BETTER: Max James in the pits at Armadale. Picture Nigel Duncan

Police are appealing for the public’s help to trace Darren Blair, 27, who has been reported missing from Edinburgh.

Darren was last spoken to around 12.30pm on Wednesday, 21 August, 2024.

He is described as being around 5ft 9in tall, of slim build, with short, fair brown hair.

When last seen, he was wearing a navy body warmer and grey jogging bottoms.

Concerns are growing for Darren’s welfare and we want to make sure he is safe and well.

Anyone who has seen him, or knows where he might be, is asked to get in touch.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference 1476 of 21 August, 2024.

The co-founder of Euan’s Guide, Euan MacDonald, has died aged 50.

He was first diagnosed with Motor Neuron Disease (MND) at the age of 29, and sought to fight for disabled access. He and his sister Kiki set up the website to gather reviews of access to places people might want to visit but needed to have more information about disabled access.

Euan said: “The aim of Euan’s Guide is to empower disabled people by providing information that will give confidence and choices for getting out and about.”

The disabled access charity, Euan’s Guide announced his death on Wednesday evening, saying: “The Euan’s Guide team are heartbroken that our co-founder, friend and inspiration has finally lost his long, long fight against Motor Neuron Disease (MND).

“But we are determined to continue to build his vision even though he has gone. Euan achieved many great things during his life, despite the many challenges that he faced. We can think of no better legacy for or tribute to him than continuing to grow Euan’s Guide in order to help improve the lives of disabled people and their friends, families and carers everywhere.”

The charity also conducts the largest access survey in the UK.

Initially the idea for the guide came from his own frustration at not being able to get into places with his powered wheelchair. Hotels, visitor attractions, accessible loos have all now been reviewed and assessed in an effort to help others.

He also founded the Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neuron Disease Research at the University of Edinburgh along with his father Donald MacDonald, CBE. Both men were law graduates of the university, and MacDonald senior had founded the City Inn chain of hotels. It was reported in 2007 that they had donated a seven figure sum to set up the facility.

The Centre is a not for profit network of hundreds of scientists and professionals looking for a cure. The centre now runs a trial with more than 750 participants. He also set up SpeakUnique in 2012 – a far-seeing service to retain the voice of those who might lose theirs to this terrible disease.

Police are continuing to appeal for help to trace Derek Robertson, 59, who is missing from Aberdeen. 

The last confirmed sighting of Derek was at Aberdeen Bus Station around 11am on Tuesday, 13 August, and from enquiries is thought to have travelled to Edinburgh by bus. 

He is described as white, around 5ft 9 inches in height, with grey hair and a long grey beard. 

Inspector John Lumsden said: “We would like to thank the public for all their help so far but are seeking further support as Derek remains missing. 

“If anyone thinks they may have seen him or knows where he might be, please contact us. 

“Derek, if you see this appeal, please get in touch so we can make sure you’re safe and well.” 

Anyone with any information should contact 101 quoting reference 3995 of 15 August. 

The Fringe has spread out to Prestonfield House where there is a star-studded line up for one week only.

Last night it was stand-up comedian Jasper Carrot who sat down to talk about his long career in comedy with Alistair McGowan. And of course the duo had the audience in stitches with their impressions and funny stories.

Carrott began his long career as a singer before developing his comedy career which entertained so many on his TV series.

While these photos were being taken he said: “I no longer play the big venues as a lot of my audience would struggle to get up to the higher balconies.”

Alistair McGowan is also an impressionist known for his show The Big Impression in 2003. He was one of the voices on Spitting Image and has appeared at the Fringe before in An Audience with Jimmy Savile in which he played the disgraced TV presenter.

Mine host is Christopher Biggins who hosts a programme of conversation, cabaret and family events. This year there is an added, intimate venue as well as The Stables at one of Edinburgh’s most prestigious hotels. Fringe at Prestonfield is set to become a hot spot for some of the best entertainment at this year’s festival.

The line up for the rest of the week includes Dean Friedman, Katherine Ryan, Richard Shelton (as Sinatra), I Ran With the Gang, An Afternoon with Janey Godley, The Barricade Boys West End Party and Janet Street-Porter.

Full information and tickets at www.fringeatprestonfield.co.uk

During the past five years, Gallery Director at The Scottish Gallery, Tommy Zyw, and his twin brother Davy have cycled thousands of miles and raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for MND research.

Davy was diagnosed with MND in 2019 at just 30 years old.

Their cycling campaigns have included riding the North Coast 500 in just four days, leading Team Edinburgh in Doddie Aid, and in 2021, completing the Scotland High – tackling Scotland’s five highest roads in a continuous 265-mile ride.

Throughout his training and these rides, Tommy has relied on his customized Bianchi Oltre, a high-performance racing bike that has enabled him to achieve his charity goals.

On Friday, 16 August, Tommy’s bike was stolen near George Square moments after receiving a warning from his mother, who had also experienced a bike theft at the Edinburgh International Book Festival.

The thieves cut through two locks, leaving them discarded on the street. Although the police were notified immediately, Tommy is now appealing to the Edinburgh community to help find his cherished bike, which holds immense sentimental value. The theft has been reported to Police Scotland along with links to CCTV nearby.

Tommy said: “This bike is my most prized possession. I’ve ridden thousands of miles on it and raised thousands of pounds for the My Name’s Doddie Foundation. I’m asking the cycling community of Edinburgh to spread the word and be vigilant for bike thieves in the Edinburgh Festival area.”Tommy said: “For the past five years I have been fundraising to find a cure for MND.

“My campaign, which I set up with my twin brother Davy is called Ride for MND, and we have raised close to £250,000 for My Name’s5 Doddie Foundation.

“Davy was diagnosed with MND in 2019. We have undertaken gruelling cycling challenges to fundraise and spread important awareness. Davy is a great ambassador for the Doddie Foundation and has contributed widely to the media.”

Savills are marketing Lansdowne House in Murrayfield as a site for residential development.

The 2.2 acre site was originally built as a private home, and the property for sale includes the main house along with a range of other school buildings and a lodge house.

Lansdowne House is the distinctive building in Murrayfield with the turret, and was formerly a school in its own right. It was bought by St George”s School for Girls in 1976 and is now to be sold for development. The sale proceeds will fund a new building on the Ravelston campus at the private school and will take all facilities back onto one footprint.

Danielle Corker of Savills said:  “This must be one of the most attractive residential development opportunities on the market in Scotland, with the Water of Leith, Murrayfield Stadium and the National Galleries on the doorstep, along with all of the sough-after aspects of a capital city including leading schools and universities.

“While we anticipate Lansdowne will be hotly contested, we will prioritise finding the right buyer who will respect the history and legacy of the site and the wider local community.  Savills Planning has submitted a pre-application enquiry to Edinburgh City Council but necessary permissions will be required to be met in respect of listed status, design, amenity, open space and parking.”

Lansdowne, Edinburgh from Fifth House on Vimeo.

Police are continuing to appeal for help to trace Eva Brown, 14, who is missing from West Lothian. 

Following extensive enquiries, it has been established Eva was seen getting on a bus at Union Square in Aberdeen around 4.35pm on Sunday, 11 August, 2024.  

It is believed she travelled to the Stonehaven area. 

Eva is described as white, 5ft 6ins in height and of slim build with medium-length brown hair. The CCTV shows she was wearing a black leather jacket, black leggings, black and white Nike trainers and was carrying a black and white Nike bag. 

Inspector Andrew Meikle said: “It’s now been ten days since the last sighting of Eva and it’s vital we trace her to ensure she’s safe and well. 

“Extensive enquiries have been carried out across the country and it would appear Eva has been in the Aberdeen and surrounding areas however we have not ruled out she may have travelled elsewhere. 

“I’d urge everyone to keep an eye out for her and report any possible sightings to us as soon as possible. 

“Eva, if you see this appeal, please make contact with police so we can ensure you’re safe. You’re not in any trouble. We just want to make sure you’re okay.” 

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 1258 of Tuesday, 13 August, 2024. 

Highly decorated Edinburgh swimmer Dan Wallace, 31, has fulfilled an ambition by successfully completing a solo English Channel crossing.

But the 2016 Olympic silver medallist and world and commonwealth champion admits he was pushed to his physical limits after being hampered by lower back pain as well as leg and hip cramp.

He says: “Training for top class competitions has made me very resilient but I really was close to taking my cap and goggles off.

“I regard myself as a very capable swimmer but found myself in a place I had never been before and needed all my grit and determination to finish.

“I think that was why I was emotional at the finish.

“I was actually quite tearful having completed the project after a long preparation. I’d ticked off something on my bucket list.

“To finish I just had to concentrate on achieving micro-doses, five minutes at a time.”

Despite his problems Dan actually swam a highly commendable 9 hours, 54 minutes from Dover to Cap Gris-Nez in France.

“I had a ball park time of 10 and ½ hours so it was good to be under that” he said, adding:

“When the support team is telling you to just be tough it’s hard to hear it, but they’re right. You slowly get further and further and then you’re like, ok, now I’m quite close, now I can maybe do it. You’re hoping it hurts in the last 2-3 hours but straightaway I realised this is not going to be a walk in the park. It was never going to be. My hip flexors went first, then my hamstring, and them my lower back really went and I thought, oh, this isn’t good. It’s exactly what I wanted, to be tested.”

A few days holidaying on Skye with family helped Dan adjust to life back on dry land.

But how did he celebrate the solo crossing having been part of a four man team who raised nearly £200,000 for charity by swimming the English Channel last year?

“I was so tired but fortunately had a good friend to say with in Dover and we did a lot of chatting about the event … but I also had a chippy and a few beers!”

Dan, along with close friend and fellow Warrender SC member, Connor Mollison, who was part of the back up team also including coach Tim Dreyner, are now back running their video-based swim technique course particularly helpful for those doing triathlons, Iron Man, or open water swim challengers.

https://swimmr.com/

A plot of 15 affordable homes will be built in Linlithgow. 

Councillors have approved a building development in Deanburn, after a previous plan for a site near West Calder was dropped. 

Local Housing officer manager Phyllis McFadyen told the town’s local area committee that the plan for a site at Mossend would be replaced by 15 units at Deanburn in Linlithgow and 5 units at sites in Livingston. 

She added: “The proposed new-build is always welcome. It will be a great addition when that gets up and running.” 

Councillor Pauline Orr said:” It’s really positive to see that we’re going to have 15 new builds in the Deanburn area which I think is really good news to hear. I wasn’t expecting that. Do we have an idea when they will become available to let?” 

The committee’s lead officer Graeme Struthers said the completion date would be in 2025 or 2026. 

Councillor Sally Pattle said “I’m sorry that Mossend is not going ahead but for Linlithgow it’s fantastic. It’s really good news. It’s a really good news story because of all the pressures there are on social housing in the ward. 

“It’s just a change of plan. It’s really good that nothing has been lost.” 

A report to the council Housing Services Policy Development and Scrutiny Panel this month said: “Negotiations have progressed with Cala Homes for the direct purchase of the completed affordable housing units at the Deanburn development in Linlithgow, which will provide much needed council houses in an area of high demand.  

“The mix is reflective of demand with some amenity bungalows incorporated into the development. It is estimated work will start on site in January 2025, with completions in 2026.” 

The same meeting heard that the Mossend site had been removed from the current building programme.  The developer said the site may still proceed, it is unlikely to meet current programmed completion dates. 

By Stuart Sommerville Local Democracy Reporter

On Friday morning to mark the Independence Day of Ukraine on 24 August there will be a wreath laying ceremony at the City Chambers in Edinburgh.

The event will be led by the Rt Hon Lord Provost, Robert Aldridge, who will be joined by First Minister John Swinney and Minister for Equalities, Kaukab Stewart.

This will be a short ceremony. Members of the Ukrainian community will come together to commemorate those who have been killed in the most recent conflict. It is also an opportunity to celebrate the anniversary of signing the Declaration of Independence in 1991.

PERTH TO HOST CELEBRATIONS

On Saturday activity moves to Perth where Scotland’s celebrations will be held.

This year’s event, which will take place on the North Inch, will be a national celebration and show of solidarity with Ukraine and those its citizens who now call Scotland home.

Perth and Kinross councillors agreed in June to twin Perth with the Ukrainian city of Nikopol.

Strathallan Councillor Steven Carr, who was recently awarded an MBE for his work with the charity Dnipro kids, has been working with members of the Ukrainian community in Scotland to organise this year’s Independence Day celebrations.

He said: “It is almost two and a half years since Russia stepped up its invasion of Ukraine. Perth and Kinross, and Scotland as a whole, have shown great hospitality to all those who have fled the conflict and found refuge in Scotland.

“We know how difficult it is for them – even as many have put down roots and made connections in our communities, they know their loved ones back at home still face terrible risks every day.

“We want to show our support for Ukraine and Ukrainians on August 24 and are inviting Ukrainians, and anyone else who wants to experience a bit of Ukrainian culture, to Perth for the day.

“It will be a real celebration of Ukrainian culture and a demonstration that Scotland stands with Ukraine and its people.”

COMMENT FROM PROVOST

Provost Xander McDade said: “Perth and Kinross has been resolute in its support for Ukraine and our celebrations this year we hope people from across Scotland join us to mark Independence Day.

“There will be a range of events taking place showcasing Ukrainian and Scottish culture.”

The council has extended its thanks to Dnipro Kids and AUGB Edinburgh (Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain) for their “invaluable support” in this year’s event. 

Acts performing on 24 August in Perth include featuring professional Ukrainian singers Elzara Batalova, Karina Cherviakova, and Olga Prokopenko, along with musician Nadiia Skliarova and the traditional dance ensemble Kvity Ukrainy and other music, singing and dance performers.

Other entertainment will come from the Saints in the Community, Perth Pipe Band, Adventure Circus, Strathmore School of Dance, Letham Majorettes, Inspire Dance, Kinfauns Step Dancers, and Fair City Baton Twirlers. There will also be activities, Willowgate Bungee, Axe Throwing, and bouncy castles for a fun-filled day for all ages.

Illegal metal detectors risk destroying vital clues into prehistoric life at Edinburgh’s Holyrood Park, experts have warned.

Heritage bosses in the capital are proposing a new project to assess the impact caused by enthusiasts trampling over the protect sites.

If approved digging will get under way at the site of Iron Age hill forts dotted around the park to identify “areas of vulnerability,” with the threat of footpath erosion also set to be examined.

The defences were built around 3,000 years ago on Salisbury Crags, Samson’s Ribs, Arthur’s Seat and Dunsapie Crag by the Votadini Celtic tribe.

It’s hoped the project will increase understanding of “archaeological features, and the risk from erosion, and to inform strategies for protection, while continuing to allow public access”.

Historic Environment Scotland (HES), which manages Holyrood Park, says illegal metal detecting at at archaeological sites has potential to cause them “irreparable damage” and “rob us of our history”.

In 2022 detectorists were warned against turning up in search of artefacts without permission after a “surge” of suspected incidents, which in some cases saw areas of turf stolen from Whinny Hill.

HES are “minded to grant consent” for AOC Archaeology Group’s bid to excavate five trenches at Dunsapie Fort, Crow Hill, Samson’s Ribs and Salisbury Crags.

However, it said as the proposed works “are not considered the minimum necessary consistent with conserving the cultural significance of the monument” they would also need approval from Scottish Ministers.

A report by the Scottish Government said: “Together, the trenches would affect a very small fraction of the known archaeological resource within the park.

“They are proposed and designed to establish areas of good archaeological survival and areas of vulnerability in relation to identified threats, including footpath erosion and illegal metal detecting.

“The assessment works are part of a wider strategy to provide new information about the archaeology of the park for the purposes of management and public interpretation, and as part of a training initiative partnership with Historic Environment Scotland (HES) and the University of Edinburgh.

“Because the trenches are relatively small, well-targeted, and would not involve full excavation of the features they seek to investigate, HES consider that any impact on the overall cultural significance of the monument is likely to be very small.

“The work has been designed to ensure that impacts on the monument are limited. HES consider that the project can be expected to deliver important public benefits, including increasing understanding of archaeological features, and the risk from erosion, and to inform strategies for protection, while continuing to allow public access.”

AOC Archaeology Group were approached for comment.

By Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter

The early music of Kate Bush has a dreamlike quality to it that is hard to replicate but Hannah Richards handles these complex songs with care.

She tells stories of Kate performing 30 or 40 songs to David Gilmore when she was still a teenager and of paving the way for women in the music industry. Hardcore fans will know most of this already but there are also plenty of new followers keen to find out more. Hannah performs alongside a stellar band that brings to life her first hit Wuthering Heights. The lead guitarist does a stellar job in handling the late Ian Bairnson’s solo (the Scot passed away in 2023) and takes on co-lead vocal for Don’t Give Up, Bush’s hit with Peter Gabriel.

Hannah sings to a man in the front row, she dances with various musicians in the band and swirls around barefoot in a red dress like there is no tomorrow while delivering hits such as Wow and Babushka.

There are some transformative moments such as This Woman’s Work, where audience members with a deep connection to the song look visibley moved. It’s hard not to think of Kate’s ex-partner and musical wing-man Del Palmer who passed away earlier this year. He was an essential part of her creative and personal life and is much missed among fans. The moment is slightly soured when a mobile phone goes off but everyone recovers well.

There is a ferocity about the haunting and evocative Running Up That Hill and its return to the zeitgeist since the song appeared as part of the soundtrack to Stranger Things. The Kate Bush story continues …

The Kate Bush Story, Night Owl Shows, Surgeons Hall